What to Know Before Diving into Wall Graphics

Wall graphics have become increasingly popular in retail, restaurants, schools and universities, hotels, and even in the home. As travel and tourism resume, hotels, airports, and convention centers need to invest in new wall graphics and signage.

As with floors, you need to understand the surface that you’re putting the graphics on before you select the film:

• What type of paint and finish is on the wall?
• How long has it been since it was last painted?
• Does the paint have low to no VOC content? Is it oxidized?
• Does the wall have a textured or smooth surface? Is the wall curvy?
• Will the graphic need to be removed? How long will it need to last?

The staple of wall film options is a matte, 6-mil calendered film with removable adhesive that can be contour cut or used as a wall mural. It is recommended for smooth interior walls without low to no VOC wall paints.

A popular specialty film for smooth interior walls is a textured calendered film. These can come in variety of finishes—crushed stone, stucco, or canvas—with either a permanent or removable adhesive.

Learn to ask the right question for the job, especially focusing on what the end user’s expectations are. It’s never as simple as, “Hey, I want to do a wall graphic.” If at all possible, go onsite to examine the surface in person. Don’t base your film selection on a photo or details the customer tells you over the phone. And don’t assume. Test. Always test.